EBL Schaudt : Maintenance, diagnosis and repair solution
The Schaudt electric/charger block, also known as the “electroblock”, is a central component of the electrical system in motorhomes equipped with it. Its main function is to distribute electricity from either the auxiliary battery or the 230 V mains, to power the lights, refrigerator and water pump.
Find out all you need to know about the operation, common faults and repair solutions for the various elektroblock models.
The role of an EBL Schaudt
EBL features
The Schaudt Electroblock is a complete device for the electrical management of a recreational vehicle. It is quite versatile, as it can be powered in a number of different ways and is suitable for several types of electrical installation. These possible functions are :
- Distribute current to the various 12V circuits to power equipment such as lights, fridge or heater.
- Charge the motorhome cell battery and monitor its voltage.
- Use fuses to protect electrical circuits in the passenger compartment.
- Control the various energy load sources (solar, battery, motor) using these various connections
- Establish electromagnetic separation between starter battery and cell battery. This feature prevents complete discharge of the starter battery when the engine is switched off.
- Convert alternating current to 230 V with built-in transformer.
In most cases, Schaudt power packs are compatible with Gel or AGM batteries. By connecting a control panel, users can view and configure information on the vehicle's electrical inputs and outputs.
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The 3 different EBL modes
Each EBL model has different operating modes. These enable the electroblock to adapt to the motorhome's activity. Let's take the example of one of the most popular models, the EBL 99:
Energy production mode
The EBL 99 can receive energy from four different sources when it needs to generate power: the 220V mains, solar panels, the motor battery and/or the cell battery. With this energy, it can supply and distribute power to the outputs: refrigerator, TV, pumps and lighting. It prioritizes power sources according to their availability to guarantee continuous distribution to equipment.
Engine running" mode
When the motorhome's engine is running (both on the move and when stationary), the EBL distributes power from the vehicle's engine battery. This mode of operation enables it to recharge the cell battery efficiently. The “engine running” mode does not, however, prevent the EBL 99 from powering the vehicle's various appliances, such as the refrigerator, lighting, TV or pump. As with each mode, the electroblock prioritizes power sources according to their availability. This ensures continuous power distribution to the equipment.
The “Charger-Converter” mode
The EBL acts as a charger/converter to optimize energy management in motorhomes. It receives energy from various power sources (engine battery, cell battery, 220V mains) and redistributes it to several energy consumers.
The different EBL Shaudt models :
The power plant models manufactured by Schaudt, which we repair regularly and which are frequently subject to breakdowns:
Common failures of an Elektroblock EBL Schaudt :
How to diagnose a fault on an EBL
Are you experiencing problems with your motorhome's electrical system? Before blaming the EBL, we recommend you carry out some simple preliminary checks. This will help you understand whether the problem is really with the electroblock.
A failure of 12V electrical outlets
Another frequent problem with Schaudt power packs is a 12V output failure. There are several possible causes for this problem. Firstly, a battery problem is possible: if the auxiliary battery is discharged or faulty, it will not supply the 12V circuit correctly. Too low a voltage may even disable the outputs to protect the rest of the system. A blown fuse may also be to blame. Since each 12V output is protected by a fuse, a blown fuse interrupts normal circuit operation. As a result, the device can no longer operate.
Connectors can also be responsible for this failure. Over time, some connectors can become loose or oxidize, especially when the motorhome is exposed to moisture, preventing the current from flowing properly.
It's perfectly possible to replace a faulty connector, provided you have crimping pliers or a soldering iron, and choose a connector compatible with the EBL's electrical system. Replacement must be carried out with care to ensure the quality of the electrical connections. To do this, first switch off the power supply, so you can work safely. Examine the connector for signs of loosening, oxidation or damage. Clean any oxidized parts with a product designed for electrical contacts. If the connector is too damaged, remove it by disconnecting or cutting the wires, then install a new connector according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Be sure to secure the wires to avoid false contacts.
Once replacement or cleaning is complete, reconnect the power supply and test the system. Use a multimeter to check the continuity of the circuit and ensure that the current is flowing correctly through the connector. Finally, test the EBL to confirm that the problem has been solved. If, despite all these checks, the problem persists, or if you're not comfortable with these manipulations, we advise you to consult a qualified professional.
Refrigerator won't turn on?
You're right! If you have a problem with the refrigeration or ignition of your motorhome fridge, it could be the EBL. But to be sure, let's first check that the fault isn't coming from the fridge itself. To do this, start by measuring the voltage after contact (+12V or ground, depending on the model) with a multimeter at the electrical socket. If no control signal is detected, check the vehicle's interior fuse. Also check that 12V is being supplied to the refrigerator via the EBL.
Also check the D+ and D- controls, as well as the motor power supply. If, after all these checks, the problem persists, it's possible that the electrical fault is actually coming from the EBL.
A coupling problem
The Electroblock may encounter problems related to battery coupling. Coupling is the connection between the cell battery and the engine battery. Coupling operates only when the engine is running, as the alternator generates current to recharge the batteries. It also operates when the vehicle is connected to the 230V mains, activating the battery charger.
However, complications can arise if this coupling doesn't work properly. For example, faulty coupling can prevent batteries from being properly recharged. The cell battery may also be completely discharged. The coupling problem may also generate current fluctuations or intermittent disconnections. This causes malfunctions in powered equipment. So, if you're experiencing these symptoms, and have carried out the preliminary checks, you can conclude that the EBL has indeed failed.
A load problem on an EBL
There are different types of electrical failure linked to the EBL load:
Partial electrical distribution problem EBL can recharge batteries, but some equipment (such as the refrigerator) may no longer work, while lighting or sockets continue to be powered. This can be confusing, as the battery appears to be functional, but the power distribution has failed. This type of problem is often linked to a blown fuse, a connector problem or internal malfunctions in the EBL. If the problem is limited to a blown fuse, you can replace it yourself. For other causes, however, it's best to call in a professional.
Mains load unrecognition problem The EBL no longer takes the mains charge, which prevents the batteries from being recharged, even if the vehicle is plugged into an external socket. This leads to rapid battery discharge and the shutdown of all EBL-powered equipment. Possible causes include a faulty or short-circuited charger, a faulty relay, blown fuses, a tripped circuit-breaker, faulty electrical connections or a poorly connected or faulty mains power cable. If the problem is simply a blown fuse, you can replace it yourself. However, for the other causes mentioned, it's advisable to call in a professional.
Pro tips : If the mains cable is at fault, start by visually checking the cable for cuts or worn areas. Check that the connections at the EBL and the mains socket are secure. Use a multimeter to test cable continuity. If there's no signal, it's faulty and needs replacing. Also check the mains plug to make sure it's supplying the correct voltage. If the cable is damaged, replace it with a compatible one. Finally, test the EBL after replacement to confirm that the problem has been solved.
Repairing a motorhome electroblock
Why shouldn't you wait to repair your motorhome's electrical system?
When an electroblock breaks down, you need to act fast. Ignoring these problems can have serious consequences. One of the first risks is overheating of the electrical connectors. Eventually, this could lead to fire, endangering the vehicle and its occupants.
A general EBL failure disrupts charge regulation between the various energy sources, such as the motor battery, cell battery and solar panels. Poor regulation leads to unsuitable charging cycles. This repeated phenomenon accelerates premature battery wear. It's important to know that a degraded battery loses performance and can discharge abnormally quickly. To avoid having to replace the battery, regular checking and maintenance of the EBL is essential.
Since a faulty EBL disrupts the distribution of energy to appliances (refrigerator, TV, pumps and lighting), the motorhome is no longer really usable. An EBL failure therefore seriously compromises the use of the vehicle and the comfort of its occupants. Repairing the electroblock quickly is therefore essential to avoid these difficulties and limit the costs associated with any more serious problems.
Our repair services
At Repturn, we have technicians who specialize in repairing Shaudt brand electric blocks. We receive different models of EBLs for various kinds of breakdowns and problems. Our repair process follows several steps. First, our technicians carry out a thorough diagnosis to identify the exact cause of the fault: checking the board, components, soldering, harnesses, connectors, power supplies... We then replace the faulty electronic components and make any modifications required to resolve the diagnosed problems. To avoid future breakdowns, we also carry out preventive maintenance on the electrical block. This involves replacing all the parts most likely to malfunction in the future, repairing fragile soldering joints, and making the block's internal connections more reliable. Finally, if necessary, we restore the EBL's aesthetic appearance, so that it looks its best before being re-installed in the motorhome.
The process of dismantling the EBL to send the block to repturn for repair
To send your Schaudt power station in for repair, we recommend you follow a few simple steps. Before unplugging the Elektroblock, perform the following steps:
1
Unplug the power supply and switch off the vehicle's ignition.
2
Check fuse values before shipping.(For solar panels, disconnect them from the controller to avoid damaging the controller).
3
Retract the external electric step before disassembling the EBL.
4
Manually block the cold protection valve to avoid emptying the water supply.
5
Switch off the 12V supply at the Schaudt control panel. Also cut the 12V supply by switching off the control panel input or output, depending on the system. Generally, this involves cutting off the 12V input that supplies the EBL. This eliminates any accidental power or voltage supply during operation. Be sure to identify the electrical circuits before making this cut.
6
Disconnect the battery by isolating it. For recent models, press the cell battery button for 10 seconds. On an older model, you'll probably have to disconnect the battery cables manually, taking care to identify the positive and negative terminals before removing them.
7
Disconnect the starter battery and the plug on the EBL. Beware of EBLs with lugs, not connectors with polarizers. This system prevents incorrect connection by limiting the orientation of the connectors. Without a coder, it's important to identify the wires (with photos or notes) during disassembly, to make reassembly easier.
8
Finally, unscrew the screws holding the EBL to the chassis, as shown in the photo.
Once the EBL has been disassembled, you can now pack it properly to prevent damage during transport. Don't forget to include the control panel too, so that technicians can test and repair the whole system.
